Hi all,

Was rethinking the running guides and tip that i'm gonna run on my #8WT. Do you think BLAG#7 runners and a BFAT 7mm tip is too small if I later want to run shooting lines?

I intend to make my shooting heads out of #10WT DT lines I can get pretty cheap and will be using braided connectors. Or should I try to run BLAG #8 and BFAT 8mm tip instead? Is there any significant weight difference?

Thanks ahead
Desmond

If you're in doubt and have no way to tape up a set and try them with your intended set-up, then I'd go larger. Yes, it will affect rod performance due to ever so slightly more weight, but the difference should be minimal. Not enough that it would possibly outweigh having to swap out a guide set at a later date.

It's always better to test first, then wrap. But when you can't, you might as well go ahead and get that little extra insurance.

...........

Thanks Tom,

Think I will consider your advise on this. Had a little doubt, as I will be building on a Pac Bay Rainforest 4pc 9 foot #8WT and heard it's a moderate action blank. Didn't want to slow it any further.

I am leaning more to the #7s and scrapping the shooting lines for now since I don't use them that much. Think regular lines are more flexible under most fishing situations, so I will save the shooting line option for my next project (i'm sure there is a next one). I have a few other rods and this one i'm going to build for the performance to see if building my own rod will make a difference.

BTW got your book on Rod building 2 weeks ago and didn't realize you also ran this site. Got it at one of the largest bookstores in the country (Singapore) and your's is the only one they carry. Think it's simple and straight to the point. Very easy to understand. Worth every penny.

Regards
Desmond

Desmond,

To minimize your knot size with braided connections make sure to make your own braided loops and nail knot them on. Factory made loops fail quite easliy and the "heat shrink" tubing creates a stiff section in your line that can catch on guides easier. I use 20-50lb braid depending on application. This method allows the smoothest and smallest loop I have found.

If you don't know how to make your own loops, check out the link below. Hope it helps.

[www.danblanton.com]

Barret

Desmond , I have 8s on a 10wt Austin and it passes the shooting heads(knots) fine. Like Tom said the extra wieght won't even be likely noticable , exspecialy on an 8 wt. Good move doing it nkow if you had any doubts as to the line systems you would be choosing.
Have fun, John